Charity Run to Benefit Theophany School in Needham, MA

Charity Road Race to Continue Local Woman’s Dream

August 25, 2009 West Roxbury, MA—In the mid-1990s, 18-year old Sonia Belcher (then, Sonia Daly) was intent on creating a school where Orthodox Christian children in the Boston area would benefit from a strong academic and spiritual education founded in the teachings of the Orthodox Christian Church. In 1997, with the support of the local Orthodox Christian community, Sonia founded what is believed to be the first pan-Orthodox School in the country: the Theophany School in Needham, MA. That fall, 17 children were enrolled for the 1997-1998 school year. Today, Theophany School is thriving, with some 35 students enrolled in the School’s Pre-School and Kindergarten classes. With three full-time teachers and one director on staff, students are provided with the individualized care and attention that is vital to a young child’s learning. Theophany School continues to grow, thanks to the generous support of the community.

Sadly, in February, 2008 Sonia Belcher passed away suddenly on her 32nd birthday. She was survived by her husband, Deacon Nicholas Belcher and their three-month old son, Andrew. In addition to her beloved family, Sonia left behind a legacy of tenacity and determination. Her final wish was for Theophany School to function as a full elementary school. Shortly after her untimely death, the School launched its “Building on a Dream” campaign, an initiative to continue Sonia’s mission, while keeping her memory alive. Thanks to the campaign, the School has received overwhelming support over the last year.

Still, the School is in need of funds in order to broaden its educational offerings. An inaugural 5k road race to benefit the “Building on a Dream” campaign will take place at St. George Church in West Roxbury, Sonia’s home parish. Sonia’s Run is set for Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 9am. A kids’ 50-yard dash will take place at 8:30, along with games, raffles, food and family fun. Organizers hope to make this an annual event. For more information about the road race, please visit www.soniasrun.org.